Saturday, November 9, 2013

Part of the process of flying we’ve all come to know and hate will soon be a thing of the past, as the FAA is lifting restrictions on electronics use during take off and landing.

You will still need to put your tray table up and make sure your seat back is in the full, upright position, but certain electronics that were previously banned during these times of the flight will now be allowed.

Devices like e-readers and iPods will be allowed under such circumstances, according to a statement made by the Federal Aviation Administration on Thursday.

It won’t be a free-for-all, however, as Internet use at altitudes below 10,000 feet will still be strictly prohibited, and phone calls are not allowed at any point during the flight.

If you’re flying today, don’t start playing Angry Birds like you’re Alec Baldwin during takeoff, as airlines still have to prove that there will be no risk whatsoever to the aircrafts due to potential interference from devices.

“We found that we could protect aviation safety and at the same time address the passenger desire for use of their portable devices,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. “The committee determined that most commercial airplanes can tolerate radio interference from portable electronic devices.”

If you’re looking to be on one of the first flights that allows electronics all throughout the trip,JetBlue Airways or Delta Air Lines may be your way to go.

“All of our aircraft are ready to go,” said Delta spokesmanPaul Skrbec. Delta already submitted proper paperwork, and is now waiting on word from the FAA. “That could come as early as today for us.”

Laptop use may still present problems during takeoff and landing since it requires the tray table, and cell service won’t be available 30,000 feet up, so there’s still a way to go before everyone is completely satisfied with electronic use on airplanes.